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CSOs Call for Peaceful Solutions Amid Protest Tensions

Published by Tope Fakinlede on September 29th, 2024.

Nigerians have been urged to embrace peaceful solutions rather than protest ahead of the October 1st Independence Day Celebration. At a press conference today, Adams Otakwu, Chairperson of the Conference of Civil Societies and Coordinator of Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMICO), made a strong case for peace ahead of planned nationwide protests. Speaking on the theme “A Call for Calm in the Overall Interest of National Security,” Otakwu reminded Nigerians of the August 1, 2024 protests that descended into violence, resulting in the loss of lives and property after being hijacked by thugs.

Otakwu warned that such unrest could undermine national security and destabilize the country further. “We have seen how protests can destroy nations, as seen in Afghanistan, Syria, Sudan, and Congo. Nigeria must not follow in their footsteps. We must embrace peace for the sake of our future,” he stressed.

Mr. Joseph Odeh, Executive Director of Leadwatch, reinforced Otakwu’s call for caution, advising Nigerians to turn to dialogue rather than protests in resolving their differences. “Dialogue offers a far better solution than protest, which often leads to violence. We must avoid this at all costs for the sake of national unity,” Odeh emphasized.

Mr. David Acheme, Executive Director of Community Initiative for Transparency, echoed the need for peaceful approaches. “The dangers of violence are far-reaching, and dialogue is the only way we can solve the problems facing our nation,” Acheme stated.

Madam Walter Elisabeth, President of Global Safe Haven Organisation, also urged Nigerians to remain united in the face of adversity. “Violence will only tear us apart. We must choose peace and solidarity as we navigate these difficult times,” she said in her closing remarks.

In similar vein, the Executive Director of Inspired Education Network, Mr. Alfa Enejoh called on Nigerians to embrace dialogue and peaceful solutions rather than protests.

The press conference ended with all speakers appealing to the public for calm, urging Nigerians to prioritize peace and security while embracing dialogue as the solution to the nation’s challenges.